NCF made a $5M debt and equity QLICI into Coushatta Forest Products (CFP) a lumber manufacturer located in a Severe Distress Coushatta, LA (30% POV). While CFP needed upgrades to its equipment, years of underinvestment left the mill with reduced operations and a cash flow shortage, prompting traditional lenders to balk. Our investment financed CFP’s equipment and working capital needs, allowing it to remain operational, increase production and diversify its product mix to add higher-margin timber. As a result, CFP has retained over 100 employees and will hire an additional 77 employees by 2026 as it opens 2 new production shifts. All positions at CFP, including entry-level roles, pay above the county living wage, with the average hourly wage being 127% of the living wage. CFP provides comprehensive health benefits as well as life and disability, plus paid vacation. Wealth building opportunities, such as a 401k with company match, a structured bonus program, and overtime pay provide employees with financial security. Additionally, CFP offers professional development training to foster upward mobility in the company. CFP is committed to hiring directly from its community, with 100% of employees coming from the low-income community.